Rob Cerjanec, Member of Provincial Parliament (MPP) for Ajax, on Monday announced the introduction of the Ontario Artificial Intelligence, Talent and Innovation Strategy Act, 2025.
The proposed legislation would require the Government of Ontario to design, implement, and maintain a comprehensive artificial intelligence, talent and innovation strategy to position Ontario a global and national leader in artificial intelligence and innovation within the next decade, said a statement from the MPP.
“Ontario can’t afford to fall behind. AI is transforming every sector, from healthcare to finance and education, but Ontario has no plan to harness it,” said Cerjanec. “Ontario needs to be leading, not watching from the sidelines. If we don’t shape AI, it will shape us.”
The proposed Act also establishes an Artificial Intelligence Advisory Committee, tasked with providing recommendations, consulting stakeholders, and publishing annual public reports on Ontario’s progress in achieving the strategy’s objectives. These objectives include:
- Encouraging the creation and growth of AI and innovation startups in Ontario
- Supporting post-secondary institutions in AI research and incubation programs
- Attracting and retaining top talent in AI and innovation sectors
- Promoting responsible AI development that protects the privacy and safety of Ontarians
- Ensuring equitable economic growth across the province and maintaining Canadian control over critical AI infrastructure
“If Ontario wants to create the jobs of tomorrow, we need to invest in developing the talent, research, and infrastructure that make it possible,” said Cerjanec. “We can’t build the economy of the future with yesterday’s tools. This is about ensuring our province leads the next wave of innovation, creates good jobs, and builds an economy in every region of the province that works for everyone.”
The Minister of Economic Development, Job Creation and Trade would be required to table the Committee’s reports in the Legislative Assembly and appear annually before a Standing Committee to describe Ontario’s progress in meeting the strategy’s goals.
The Ontario Artificial Intelligence, Talent and Innovation Strategy Act, 2025 would also require a review of the Act every three years to ensure it continues to serve Ontario’s economic and innovation priorities.